Gaudier-Brzeska: Disputing the Earth

16 Mar – 2 Jun 19

In his short life, French artist Henri Gaudier-Brzeska (1891-1915) created an astonishing range of animal-inspired artworks. Gaudier-Brzeska: Disputing the Earth will be the first exhibition to examine Gaudier’s full range as an animal artist and the special significance that the animal kingdom held for the artist.

Including works as varied as wallpaper designs, sculptures and sketches, the show will be grouped according to the places where Gaudier found his subjects – zoo, park, wilderness. Placed alongside one another, this incredible collection of artworks will demonstrate Gaudier's extraordinary stylistic variety, and the extent to which his abstract work was rooted in the observation of nature.

Gaudier-Brzeska has a special connection to Bristol and the region. He spent two years in the south west, sketching at the RWA and at Bristol Zoo.

This exhibition brings Gaudier-Brzeska's sculptures and drawings back to Bristol, a century after he first explored the city, and establishes his significance as an animal artist.

Last admission 30 minutes before closing. The RWA occasionally closes early for special events. Please call ahead or check the website for details. Please notethat the galleries will be closed to the public on Thursday 16 and Friday 17 May 2019 as we will be hosting our annual Secret Postcard Auction in the evening of Thursday 16 May.